Julien Fournié's 'First Circus' Turns Couture into a Theatrical Spectacle in Paris

Julien Fournié pulled out all the stops Tuesday at the Théâtre Mogador, presenting "First Circus," a daring haute couture that provocatively blurred the boundaries between fashion and performance. It was a fantastical spectacle, equal parts wacky and spellbinding, and a fitting tribute to the designer's childhood imagination and flair for the theatrical.

Touches of Gothic lent the event a devilish edge, as seen in a figure-hugging checked gown segmented with black panels. The model, her face eerily painted and her hair jet black, strutted like a burlesque specter, embodying a fusion of couture drama and carnival mischief.